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Bankruptcy Eligibility

Eligibility is more than a single income number.

Income testing matters, but so do the type of debt, property, expenses, prior filings, recent transactions and the relief you need.

Eligibility Questions

The answer depends on both the chapter and the goal.

A person may be eligible for one chapter but find that another path better addresses property, arrears or long-term affordability.

Chapter 7 Review

Income testing, property exposure, debt dischargeability and prior cases are among the issues to evaluate.

Explore Chapter 7 →

Chapter 13 Review

Regular income, debt limits, plan feasibility, arrears and property can shape the Chapter 13 analysis.

Explore Chapter 13 →

Information to Gather

Bring facts instead of estimates whenever possible.

The initial consultation does not require a perfectly organized file, but reliable documents can make the discussion more useful.

  • Recent pay statements and other income records
  • Recent tax returns, when available
  • Mortgage and vehicle loan statements
  • Bank, retirement and investment balances
  • A list of lawsuits, liens, garnishments and major debts
  • Information about property transfers or large payments

Common Questions

Eligibility questions

These are general answers. Your rights and options depend on your specific facts and current law.

Is there an income limit for bankruptcy?

Chapter 7 uses an income analysis, but there is no single universal number. Household size, location, expenses and other facts matter.

Can I file if I filed bankruptcy before?

Possibly. Prior case dates, chapter, outcome and the relief now sought can affect eligibility and the automatic stay.

Can a business owner file?

Business ownership adds financial and legal issues that require a careful review of entity, assets, liabilities and records.

Can I file without my spouse?

Sometimes, but household income, joint debts and jointly owned property may still be relevant.

Get an eligibility analysis based on your facts.

A free consultation can identify the information needed for a reliable recommendation.

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